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Psychiatric aspects of epilepsy.
1Neuropsychiatry Branch, Saint Elizabeth's Hospital, Washington, D.C. 20032.
The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry
|April 1, 1988
Summary
The prevalence of psychiatric disorders in epilepsy patients varies greatly by study population, from low in community surveys to 100% in psychiatric hospitals. Research explores the link between epilepsy and conditions like psychosis and depression.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Psychiatry
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Epilepsy is frequently associated with psychiatric disorders.
- The reported prevalence of psychiatric comorbidities in epilepsy varies significantly based on the studied population.
- Understanding these comorbidities is crucial for comprehensive patient care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the evidence for a causal or physiological relationship between epilepsy and various psychiatric disorders.
- To discuss the treatment of psychiatric disturbances in epilepsy patients.
- To specifically examine the potential link between temporal lobe epilepsy and schizophrenic disorders.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of existing evidence.
- Analysis of prevalence data from different epilepsy populations (community, clinics, psychiatric hospitals).
- Focus on physiological and causal relationships.
Main Results:
- Prevalence of psychiatric disorders is low in community-based epilepsy studies.
- Prevalence increases to 25-50% in epilepsy specialty clinics.
- Prevalence reaches 100% in psychiatric hospital settings.
Conclusions:
- The study population significantly influences the observed prevalence of psychiatric disorders in epilepsy.
- Evidence suggests a relationship between epilepsy, particularly temporal lobe epilepsy, and psychiatric conditions.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and optimize treatment strategies.